How to Determine the Presence of a Dog
Yeast Infection

Most of us view our dogs as part of the family and feel we know them as well as we know our spouse or child. If you feel this way, you are already on the right track to determining whether or not your dog is suffering from a dog yeast infection.

What does knowing your dog have to do with diagnosing a dog yeast infection? Here's an example...

If you know that your dog is usually very energetic and rarely a consistent scratcher then you will probably realize that something is wrong if your dog begins to mope around and scratch her ear frequently.

The better you know and understand your pet, the easier it will be to spot a problem before it becomes too serious.

If you notice a change in your dog, determine if a dog ear yeast infection is the culprit by examining the ear for:

Crustiness around the center of the ear

Discharge

Foul smell

Redness

Shaking of the head

Swelling

Note: The common symptoms of a dog ear yeast infection can mimic those of a dog that has contracted ear mites or has something stuck far inside the ear. Your vet will be able to determine the difference between these issues.

Common behaviors of a dog suffering from a dog yeast infection of the ear include:

Moping around with noticeably less energy

Rubbing the ear on the carpet or furniture

Scratching the ear excessively

Shaking of the head

Whining

If you have observed your dog’s strange behavior or symptoms, get him to the vet as soon as possible. The yeast infection can worsen if it goes untreated, so the sooner the better for your dog and your brand new oriental rug!

What are Common Causes of a Dog Yeast
Infection of the Ear?

There are a number of possible contributors to yeast growing in the ear of your dog:

Antibiotics: A dog ear yeast infection can be caused by common antibiotics. Your veterinarian may prescribe an antibiotic to treat one bacterial infection, and that antibiotic may in turn cause another. Be wary of this when your vet prescribes an antibiotic and always remember there are usually holistic alternatives.

Dark and moist areas of the body: Yeast thrives in moist, dark environments, which makes the ears of all our beloved “floppy eared dogs” a perfect growing spot. If your dog has floppy ears, frequently use a wet wipe or natural ear cleaner to keep them as clean as possible. Halo's Herbal Natural Ear Wash Solution is a great option.

Low immune system: In the end, healthy dogs will always have a greater chance at fighting off illness and disease. It is the same with a dog yeast infection. Yeast takes advantage of an unhealthy dog that may not have to best diet, exercise and bathing routine. Give your dog a fighting chance against yeast by keeping them healthy!

Scratched or wounded areas: An ear that has been scratched or wounded is more susceptible to excessive yeast growth. Check your dog’s ears often for scratches or wounds. If one is spotted, do your best to keep it clean.

Holistic Treatments for a Dog Yeast Infection

Your first step to treating your dog’s yeast infection is to have it diagnosed by your veterinarian. If your dog is suffering from ear mites or a particle lodged in the ear, it is important to have that treated by a professional.

If your veterinarian diagnoses a dog yeast infection, you are safe to go ahead and try some at-home holistic treatments...

First,
try cleaning the dog’s ear with a diluted white vinegar treatment. Dilute the vinegar in water, pour a small amount
into the dog’s ear and gently massage the outer part of the ear. Wipe away any extra that may seep out of the ear canal. Doing this once a day may help to clear up your dog’s yeast infection and doing so weekly may help to prevent future infections.

There are certain herbs that help cure and
prevent the
overgrowth of yeast in the body:

Rosemary and Tea Tree oil work as topical pain relievers for inflammation and as a natural disinfectant for wounds caused
by repetitive ear scratching.

Ear Dr. from PetAlive contains
both along with Marigold (good for the skin) and Verbascum Thapsus
(commonly used in ear drops to promote ear health).

Acidophilus helps promote a healthy
balance of flora in the stomach, which will
help prevent the overgrowth of yeast in the body. Acidophilus
is
found in a pill form and also in yogurt.

Vitamin C for Dogs is a proven anti-oxidant that can
help to regulate the growth of yeast in the body.

Consider using Ear Dr. as mentioned above. In addition to curing an ear yeast infection, it also works well as a preventative measure.

Help your dog maintain consistent health will help to prevent yeast infections from
occurring. A healthy, balanced dog food diet along with plenty of
exercise
and regular vet visits should do the trick.

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Disclaimers: The information contained in this web site is provided for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as nor should be relied upon as medical advice. Rather, it is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between a pet owner/site visitor and his/her local veterinarian(s). Before you use any of the information provided in the site, you should seek the advice of a qualified professional.

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Disclaimers: The information contained in this web site is provided for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as nor should be relied upon as medical advice. Rather, it is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between a pet owner/site visitor and his/her local veterinarian(s). Before you use any of the information provided in the site, you should seek the advice of a qualified professional.

In the spirit of full
disclosure, we wanted to let you know that we proudly support this
website through advertising and affiliate marketing. In other words,
when you click on a link that takes you outside of this website, we
often earn a small commission. These small commissions allow us to keep
the site up and running and to continue offering it completely free of
charge to you. Rest assured that all content, recommendations and
advice are created before, and are independent of, any sponsorship or
affiliate relationship. Click
here for more info.